In Thailand, the ambitious Land Bridge project connecting the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea worth an astounding 1 trillion baht is stirring significant concerns among environmentalists, local communities, and legal experts. The project, which aims to construct deep-sea ports in Chumphon and Ranong, is being scrutinized for its potential environmental impact and socio-economic consequences.
Key organizations such as the Environment Law Foundation (EnLaw), Beach for Life, and the Southern Green Foundation have embarked on comprehensive research to evaluate the ramifications of the Land Bridge initiative. According to Apichak Thasanee, coordinator of Beach for Life, there is a growing apprehension regarding the lack of in-depth impact studies by the government. "Local people cherish their land, but the authorities only view it as a development opportunity," said Apichak in an interview with The Active.
The Land Bridge project is not entirely new; it has historical roots dating back to the era of King Narai and has been revived over the years, particularly under the leadership of several Thai prime ministers. The project proposes the construction of a large port in Chumphon and another in Ranong, alongside other supporting infrastructure like dual-track railways and expressways. The strategic location has the potential to transform the region into a significant transportation hub, but local stakeholders are questioning the feasibility and ethical considerations of such an endeavor.
The opposition against the Land Bridge project has intensified as critiques of previous proposals resurface, especially those made during Thaksin Shinawatra's administration from 2001 to 2006. Environmental challenges and disastrous attempts at port expansions characterized that period, resulting in significant pushback from local communities. As Apichak elaborates, if constructed, the deep-sea port in Chumphon would involve the largest land reclamation project yet undertaken in Thailand, with about 7,000 rai of ocean being reclaimed for this purpose.
In August 2568, the government expects to hold a meeting to discuss the findings of the Environmental and Health Impact Assessment (EHIA) conducted by six consultancy firms. Apichak emphasized that if the project proceeds without comprehensive environmental evaluations, it could have severe consequences for local ecosystems, communities, and economies. "This includes not only the environmental degradation but also the potential loss of livelihoods for communities dependent on fishing and tourism," he added.
The geographical and biological significance of the area cannot be overlooked. The vicinity of the planned deep-sea ports is home to over 7,000 inhabitants, numerous healthcare facilities, schools, and natural resources. Many of these facilities are located within or adjacent to the areas scheduled for development. Approximately 2,500 households stand to be impacted by the Land Bridge project. Furthermore, important environmental features, such as coral reefs, mangroves, and significant fish breeding grounds, are at risk.
Attempts to engage local communities in the decision-making processes regarding the Land Bridge's development have faced challenges. Those living in areas like the Don Ta Paew in Ranong, which is dubbed the "treasure of the sea," rely heavily on fishing for their income, earning about 31,000 baht a month, surpassing the local average.
Apichak argues that the fishing industry shouldn't just be seen through an economic lens, but also emphasizes its sociocultural value. Many fishermen practice traditional ways of fishing and have established deeper connections with the marine environment, which could be compromised if the Land Bridge is built.
Your thoughts, Apichak? "If the Land Bridge is realized, the economic benefits might come at a steep cost—disruption of the local ecology that the communities depend on for their way of life," he warns. Environmental assessments indicate potential disasters that could arise from water pollution, altering marine biodiversity and jeopardizing local communities.
The proposed Land Bridge is seen as a critical pathway for enhanced economic activity, yet the draft legislation, notably the Special Economic Corridor Act (SEC), raises concerns about the erosion of citizens' rights and environmental regulations. Essential regulatory processes may be expedited or ignored under the SEC, which could undermine the public's ability to contest the project and raise concerns about its implications.
As opposition to the Land Bridge continues to grow, many residents and activists have called for the government to prioritize environmental safeguards and genuine public participation. They stress that the decision to progress with the Land Bridge should not disregard the possible consequences to environmental health, community welfare, and the preservation of Thailand’s vibrant marine ecosystems.
In summary, the Land Bridge initiative reflects the tension between developmental aspirations and the preservation of local communities and environments. As ongoing discussions unfold, it is paramount that the voices from impacted communities are considered....
